In Florida, it’s hurricane season. With many different
storms that will be barreling towards the state over the next few weeks and
months, you should consider doing to protect your vehicle in the event of one
of these catastrophic storms.
First things first, make sure that you stay updated on the
storm’s track. We all know that the track of these hurricanes can and do change
constantly. Also, make sure that you have a comprehensive storm safety plan
ready to go. Oh and should you need to evacuate, make sure you know your
emergency evacuation routes too.
But of course, while you are safeguarding your house, you
should also make sure that you protect your vehicle in the event of a
hurricane. We at Courtesy Toyota of Brandon have some tips that may be helpful:
First things first, make sure you round up your vehicle’s registration
and insurance and put them in a plastic, zip-top bag in a safe location that
you will remember. You should also distribute additional documentation and
extra keys or key fobs to more than one licensed family member, if possible.
That way, if you end up separated, your vehicle is ready to be used in an
emergency by all who may need it.
Prior to the storm, make sure you take both exterior and
interior photos of your car’s current condition. That way, if you do end up needing
to contact your insurance company, you will easily be able to pull up what you
need and can prove what your vehicle looked like prior to the storm.
You’ll also want to make sure that your car has enough gas
in it prior to the hurricane hitting. The earlier you fill your car, the better,
as many gas stations run out of gas in the days leading up to the storm. This
can lead to frustration, as well as long lines at gas stations that actually do
have gas. Also, leading up to the storm, only use your vehicle sparingly, that
way if you do need to leave and the gas stations around you are out of fuel,
you’ll be able to get to a place that will have gas more readily available.
If possible, make sure you park your vehicle in a safe
location. If you have a garage, park your car in it. If you don’t have a
garage, consider parking your car as close to a building as you can. That way
your car will at least partially protected from high wind conditions. Whatever
you do though, don’t park under power lines or trees that can be easily blown
down.
Once the storm is over, make sure that you check for damage
and since you took photos prior to the storm, you can easily compare your
before photos with your after photos to see what issues may have to be taken
care of. In addition, if you need to
drive after the storm, only drive if necessary, avoid flooded roads, and watch
for fallen objects or weakened infrastructure.
Having a plan ahead of these storms can give you some well
needed peace of mind about your car so you can feel a little bit safer.
For those looking impacted by the recent hurricane, please make sure to check out our hurricane relief page for further assistance.
